Karens Spread Like an Infection in Lewis County, Sparking Over-the-Top Reactions Everywhere

Local | 2025/04/13

LEWIS COUNTY, WA - In recent weeks, Lewis County has seen an alarming increase in the number of "Karens" — a term for individuals, often middle-aged women, who are quick to complain and demand special treatment, usually with an over-the-top sense of entitlement.

Residents are reporting a surge in interactions with these vocal figures, who seem to crop up in every public space, from the local grocery store to neighborhood parks. Local health experts, baffled by the phenomenon, have started referring to the situation as "Karen-itis," a condition where minor inconveniences spark outrage worthy of a prime-time drama. The condition is spreading rapidly, as though the very air in the county is infecting people with an overwhelming urge to cause a scene.

The symptoms of Karen-itis are unmistakable: A Karen is often seen standing in line with a facial expression of profound dissatisfaction, demanding to speak to a manager for the most trivial matters. “I asked for my coffee extra hot, not lukewarm!” one woman was heard shouting at a barista. Reports also highlight an increase in outbursts over parking spaces, perceived customer service failings, and even long wait times at the DMV. "I swear, I have never seen anything like it," said A local grocery store employee. "Yesterday, a woman demanded a refund because the checkout lane was too slow, and she was missing her show. She even threatened to call the mayor!"

The county’s response to the growing "Karen" crisis has been mixed. Some residents are trying to approach the situation with patience, understanding that the real issue might stem from personal stress and the pressures of modern life. Others, however, are frustrated by the constant need to reassure these individuals that they are not, in fact, the center of the universe. One thing is for sure: as the "Karen" epidemic continues to rise, Lewis County will need to develop strategies for managing these over-the-top reactions before every public outing becomes a theatrical event. And in the meantime, local managers are getting pretty good at hearing, "Can I speak to your manager?"

-Jenna Tolls

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